On February 3, this day honors the path that female doctors have paved since 1849 as people recognize National Women Physicians Day. This day also marks the birthday of Dr.Elizabeth Blackwell, who is the first women to receive a medical degree in the U.S. in 1849. Dr. Blackwell initiated the movement that helped women gain entry and equality in the field of medicine.

If society will not admit of a women’s free development, then society must be remodeled. ~Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell

The day celebrates the courage of Elizabeth Blackwell and the accomplishments of female physicians everywhere. At the same time, the day strives to bring improvements to the workplace for the growing number of women physicians entering the field of medicine.

While the number of women doctors gradually increased in the last two decades, 2016 statistics show 35% of physicians are women. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine last year revealed that women doctors earn on average of 8% less than their male counterparts. That discrepancy, along with nearly a third of women physicians reporting sexual harassment in the workplace and a large majority experiencing gender bias. Clearly, there is still worked to be done.

National Women Physicians Day recognizes the strides made by generations of women doctors. The observance also recognize that people must strike a balance that allows women to succeed professionally while supporting a family.

https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-women-physicians-day-february-3